April 15, 2014 was the final (extended) deadline to enroll in a plan through California’s state-run health insurance exchange, Covered California, and the enrollment numbers as of the enrollment deadline are in. Nearly 1.4 million people enrolled in Covered California, and 88% of these individuals are eligible for cost-sharing subsidies to help cover medical expenses and/or tax breaks to help cover the cost of insurance premiums.
More than 205,000 people enrolled between April 1-15, alone, and 50,000 people enrolled on the last day. The final count exceeds by 815,000 the totals expected, according to Covered California.
Millions Enrolled in Medi-Cal, Enrollment among Latinos Up
California was among the states that chose to expand its Medicaid program. In addition to the nearly 1.4 million who enrolled in Covered California, 1.9 million people enrolled in Medi-Cal, the state’s low/no cost Medicaid program.
Covered California reports that enrollment among Latinos (a demographic that in months past showed low enrollment numbers) had a “strong finish,” as did enrollment numbers among 18 to 34-year-olds, who made up 29 percent of Covered California enrollees.
Certified Insurance Agents Aided Enrollment Significantly
Certified Insurance Agents helped enroll 39% of California consumers—a considerable number. By working with a Certified Insurance Agent, consumers gain the benefit of the agent’s special training on the Affordable Care Act and Covered California and his or her expert knowledge about the insurance industry.
Although the Covered California enrollment deadline has passed, some people will be eligible for special enrollment based on certain qualifying life events or other circumstances. Contact the Certified Insurance Agents at Benefit Packages today to determine whether you may qualify.